Mathieu Flamini has played alongside the likes of Kaka, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, David Beckham and Thierry Henry - and he says current team-mate Mesut Ozil is "easily" as good as those legends.

The German World Cup winner has been Arsenal's star player this season, racking up 16 assists and five goals in 25 appearances.

And Flamini, who has become close friends with the playmaker since his arrival at the club, says Ozil is one of the best footballers he has ever played with.

"I’m very pleased for him,” Flamini said. “We all knew he was a top player but I’m glad he’s proving it every game. It’s very important to have him on our side because, as you can all see, he can make the difference at any time.

Mesut Ozil - 2015/16

25

Appearances

16

Assists

5

Goals

Correct as of 06/01/16

“He has been giving so many assists and has been making so much difference in the past few games, so it’s a pleasure to play next to him and it’s also a pleasure to watch him on the pitch.

“His vision is something that you don’t find very often, so he’s easily one of the best players I’ve ever played with."

Speaking to the club's website , he added: “We are close friends and we have a good time on and off the pitch. That’s very important because, if you want to be able to perform, you have to feel happy in your head and feel confident off the pitch.